The Nafiu Bala Gombe-led National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress has strongly criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission for recognising the David Mark-led faction of the party, despite a court case currently challenging its legitimacy.
This was disclosed in a communiqué issued after an emergency joint meeting of the NWC and the National Executive Committee held in Abuja on Saturday.
The party accused INEC of acting prematurely and undermining the rule of law by recognising a faction while litigation was ongoing.
According to the communiqué, “The ADC members convened in light of INEC’s hasty recognition and posting of the David Mark-led leadership of the party on its official portal, despite a pending legal proceeding that challenges the legitimacy of this leadership.
“This act raises significant questions about the impartiality of INEC and its commitment to uphold the democratic principles enshrined in our constitution. The ADC vehemently condemns this premature action and demands an immediate rectification, asserting that we will not stand idly by as our party’s legitimacy is undermined.”
The party leadership, under Chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe, stated that INEC’s decision to upload Mark’s leadership on its official platform “raises significant questions about the commission’s neutrality and credibility.” It warned that such actions could compromise the foundations of Nigeria’s democracy and weaken trust in electoral institutions.
“INEC, as the custodian of our electoral integrity, is expected to maintain a neutral stance in all political matters. However, the recent actions suggest an alarming departure from this expectation. By seemingly aligning itself with individuals who have previously destabilized their own political entities, INEC risks being perceived as biased,” the communiqué stated.
The party alleged that certain individuals, described as “desperate politicians,” were seeking to exploit the ADC for their own ambitions. It warned that the manipulation of internal party structures for personal gain posed a broader threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
“The ADC recognizes that these individuals, in their desperate quest for power, have resorted to manipulative tactics, seeking to exploit our party for personal gain. This behavior not only undermines the democratic process but also poses a significant threat to the stability of our nation.”
Drawing on historical political divisions, the ADC said the strategies being deployed are reminiscent of tactics used during past administrations to sow discord for political advantage.
“Historical Precedents of Division. The tactics employed by these opportunistic politicians are not new; they echo the divisive strategies witnessed during President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
“By exploiting regional sentiments and fostering discord, they have inflicted severe damage on Nigeria’s political landscape. The repercussions of their actions are profound, leading to a stagnation of progress that has set our nation back by decades.”
The party attributed some of Nigeria’s current challenges—including economic hardship, insecurity, and corruption—to the political instability caused by such tactics. It stated that these issues have deepened public mistrust in governance institutions.
In reaction to INEC’s action, the ADC confirmed it had initiated legal proceedings at the Federal High Court, seeking to reverse the recognition of the Mark-led faction and affirm the leadership under Nafiu Bala Gombe.
“This litigation aims to challenge the legitimacy of INEC’s recent maneuvers and seeks redress for the harm inflicted upon our party. We implore INEC to exercise maturity and restraint by awaiting the outcome of this pending court case before making any further announcements regarding party leadership on its official portal.”
The party reiterated its commitment to peace and internal stability, insisting it would not be used as a vehicle for personal ambition. It described itself as a structured political entity grounded in strong values and principles.
“We will not serve as a refuge for idle politicians who seek to exploit our platform for personal ambitions. The integrity of the ADC is non-negotiable, and we will steadfastly protect our mandate.”
In conclusion, the party urged its members to remain calm and unified in the face of internal and external challenges.
“To our esteemed members, we urge you to remain calm, united, and resolute in the face of these challenges. Together, we will safeguard our party’s integrity, and no external force will undermine our collective efforts. Our unity is our strength, and it is through our solidarity that we will overcome any obstacles that lie ahead.
“In closing, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to every member of the African Democratic Congress. Your unwavering commitment and dedication to our cause have been invaluable in these trying times. Together, we will navigate the complexities of our political landscape and emerge stronger for it. May God’s blessings be upon you all as we continue this journey together.”
